loss of life

idiomatic phrase

: death
… street robberies, often accompanied by cruel wounds, and not unfrequently by loss of lifeCharles Dickens
: incidences of people dying
In 1900 a hurricane struck Galveston, Texas, destroying the city and killing over 6,000 persons—the greatest loss of life from a natural disaster ever recorded in the United States.David H. Hickcox

Examples of loss of life in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Powerful earthquakes in countries lacking seismic preparedness, often due to lack of adoption or enforcement of building codes, have produced much greater devastation and loss of life. Jonathan P. Stewart, The Conversation, 31 Mar. 2025 This means millions of Pakistani families are vulnerable to financial shocks from health emergencies, accidents or loss of life. Murtaza Ali, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025 Testing would still be allowed for employees in safety-sensitive positions, which the bill defines as jobs where impairment could cause immediate and permanent physical injury or loss of life. Alonzo Martinez, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025 The conflict has resulted in significant loss of life, international sanctions against Moscow, and a protracted humanitarian crisis. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 12 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for loss of life

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of loss of life was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Loss of life.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loss%20of%20life. Accessed 20 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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